AWARD-WINNING restaurant Barn Asia has been saved, after one of its most loyal customers read about its demise in The Journal.

The Asian eaterie in Newcastle’s Waterloo Square went into administration last month after the bank pulled the plug on its loans.

But after reading a report in The Journal about its closure, reader Phil Collerton stepped in to save the day.

The businessman from Gosforth has set up Electric East, a new incarnation of the restaurant.

Opening on December 7, it will employ the same chefs and staff, and will continue to serve the same South East Asian cuisine which won Barn Asia a Remy Martin Award for excellence and a spot in The Times top 100 best restaurant list.

Former Barn Asia boss Mark Lagun, who will manage Electric East, said he was delighted the venture will reopen – albeit under a new name and owner.

“Phil got in touch with me after he read about the closure of Barn Asia in The Journal,” said Mark, who has worked in the restaurant industry since he left school at 16.

“He said he thought he may be able to help finance a new restaurant. When I saw the name I recognised him as someone who often came in with his wife and family. Phil has shown faith in something he believes in. He is someone who has eaten in restaurants all over the world, but he feels a place like this is worth keeping open.”